Diversions can produce prototypes, "one-of's" and functional test models in ABS plastic
in hours. We also augment this service with traditional machining and fabrication
services as well as RTV rubber mold making and casting in resin, bondo, plaster
and low melt metals. We can also take your 2D drawings and create the 3D model for
the printer to produce.
The Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) works directly from 3D modeling software
files in STL format. The printer works with two materials, a ABS build material and
a break-away support material. The printer software slices the object to be modeled
into layers .010" thick and then the printer builds the model layer by layer by extruding
a filament of ABS material .010" by .020" thick back and forth in the "x,y" plane
until each layer is complete, moves up .010" and builds the next layer. If a portion
of the model requires support during the process the printer automatically builds
this along with the ABS and the support can be removed after the build is complete.
The printer can also build hollow objects by building in a honeycomb of material
on the inside that can be removed after the build is complete. The build envelope
is 8" by 8" by 12" tall and if something I'm building is bigger than this I can glue
the parts together using ABS solvent cement.
The ABS material is available in 8 primary colours and can also be painted if required.
